“And I tell you, everyone who acknowledges Me before men, the Son of Man also will acknowledge before the angels of God, but the one who denies Me before men will be denied before the angels of God.” (Luke 12:8)
Having faith in Jesus as your Savior is very personal, but it is not private. Being a follower of Jesus marks your identity, and others will probably notice sooner or later. They may ask you to explain your faith, or they may react in a hostile way.
Jesus warns His disciples, “Be on your guard. For they will deliver you over to councils, and you will be beaten in synagogues, and you will stand before governors and kings for My sake, to bear witness before them” (Mark 13:9).
Peter was the first disciple who was put to the test — and he failed. He denied Jesus three times because he was afraid to be arrested. But he repented and Jesus forgave him. Later on, Peter showed much courage when he spread the Good News about Jesus’ salvation work and he was ready to even die for it. Many others were, too.
Not every Christian will face persecution. But we should all be ready to bear witness and to acknowledge Jesus before men if we are asked after our faith. Are you ready to do that?